Five-Star Dunluce Lodge Scoops Another Major International Accolade

press release 

Five-Star Dunluce Lodge Scoops Another Major International Accolade

Fresh off the back of Executive Chef Stephen Holland being crowned ‘Chef of the Year’ at the prestigious Licensed & Catering News (LCN) Awards 2026, the accolades continue for Dunluce Lodge, with the five-star property now being named Best Luxury New Hotel in Ireland 2026 by the internationally renowned ‘Luxury Lifestyle Awards’.

 

The latest honour is another significant milestone in what has been an extraordinary first year for the hotel. The Luxury Lifestyle Awards celebrate the world's finest luxury brands across hospitality, travel, fashion and lifestyle, recognising excellence in guest experience, innovation, quality of service and overall luxury offering. Winning the title of ‘Best Luxury New Hotel in Ireland 2026’ is a major international endorsement and recognises Dunluce Lodge's distinctive contribution to Ireland's luxury hospitality landscape less than a year after opening its doors.

Since welcoming its first guests in 2025, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush has rapidly established itself as one of Ireland's most exciting luxury hospitality success stories. The 35-bedroom boutique retreat, overlooking the fourth fairway of the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Club, has become synonymous with understated luxury, exceptional food, personalised service and unforgettable guest experiences on Northern Ireland's spectacular Causeway Coast.

 

Dunluce Lodge has redefined luxury hospitality in the region, attracting discerning visitors from Ireland, the United Kingdom, Europe and North America. In an industry where it can often take years for a new hotel to build its reputation, Dunluce Lodge has achieved what few properties manage in such a short space of time, earning recognition from both guests and the hospitality industry alike.

Every detail of the guest experience has been thoughtfully curated. From personalised pre-arrival planning and bespoke concierge services to luxurious accommodation, wellness experiences and tailored itineraries exploring the beauty of the Causeway Coast, the hotel offers an experience that feels both effortlessly luxurious and deeply connected to its surroundings.

 

Dining has become one of the defining pillars of the Dunluce Lodge experience. Under the direction of Executive Chef Stephen Holland, whose recent LCN Chef of the Year 2026 title has brought further acclaim to the hotel, the restaurant showcases the finest seasonal produce from Northern Ireland's exceptional natural larder. Fresh seafood landed just along the coast, locally reared meats, artisan producers and seasonal ingredients are transformed into refined dishes that celebrate the region, complemented by expertly selected wines and one of Ireland's finest collections of Irish whiskeys.

 

The hotel's growing reputation is further reflected through its membership of some of the world's most respected luxury hospitality collections. Dunluce Lodge is proudly affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Hilton's luxury collection, while also being a member of Good Food Ireland, recognising its commitment to championing exceptional local produce and authentic Irish cuisine. The hotel is also part of the prestigious Blue Book, an exclusive collection of Ireland's finest country house hotels, castles and luxury hideaways renowned for their outstanding hospitality and unique character.

 

Commenting on the award, General Manager Stephen Meldrum said, "To receive international recognition like this within our first year is an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Dunluce Lodge. From the very beginning, our ambition was to create a luxury hotel that feels deeply connected to this remarkable part of the world while delivering the very highest standards of hospitality. Every member of our team shares a genuine passion for looking after our guests, and this award is testament to their dedication, professionalism and commitment every single day.

 

"The Causeway Coast is one of the most extraordinary destinations anywhere in the world, and we feel privileged to showcase everything that makes this region so special, from its spectacular landscapes and championship golf to its exceptional food, local producers and warm Northern Irish welcome. We are also incredibly proud to work alongside such talented local artisans, suppliers and producers whose passion and quality help make every guest experience truly memorable. We look forward to welcoming many more visitors from around the world to experience Dunluce Lodge for themselves."

 

For Dunluce Lodge, the latest accolade represents another chapter in an exceptional opening year. With international recognition, award-winning cuisine and membership of Ireland's most respected luxury hospitality collections, the five-star hotel continues to strengthen its position as one of the finest luxury destinations anywhere on the island of Ireland, while showcasing the very best of Northern Ireland to an international audience.

For more information on Dunluce Lodge see www.dunlucelodge.com  or call   + 44 28 7053 1700